Tag Archives: Tresco

The need to protect the Western Approaches to the UK has been a constant challenge throughout history (See: https://lagill6.wordpress.com/2018/11/09/cromwells-castle/ ). Although Tresco is a very small island (little more than 2 miles x 1 mile) from 1917 -1919 it was the base for a small group of flying boats as part of the Royal Navy Air Service. The function of these planes was to protect the Approaches from attack by U-boats and to provide escort for convoys. The crews received several decorations in recognition of their services. n 1918 the small squadron be came No. 234 Squadron of the Royal Air Force.

The area that was once the base has been converted into the Flying Boat Club complete with restaurant, bar and health spa facilities. The swimming pool area is decorated with a delightful mural capturing aspects of life in the early years of the last century.

The strategic importance of the channel between Tresco and Bryher in theIsles of Scilly in the defence of the British Isles has been recognised across the centuries. In 1550, during the reign of Edward VI a small artillery fortress was built on the high ground of Tresco. Its purpose was to defend the harbour of New Grimsby. At the beginning of the Civil War it was garrisoned by Royalist troops. It later became known as King Charles’s Castle.

However, the site of the fortress was considered unsuitable and when the Parliamentarians gained power a new artillery tower was built on the rocky shore in 1651. Its purpose was to defend against all threats – notably, at that time, from the Dutch.

During our recent holiday on Tresco, one of the Isles of Scilly, we were fortunate to have accommodation that looked out across the channel separating Tresco from Bryher. The crossing of the channel at the times of the Spring tides was shown in an earlier post. (See https://lagill6.wordpress.com/2018/10/23/spring-tide-adventurers/)

The first photo shows the view from the lounge The second and third were taken from the patio and show the views to the left and right. In the second photo it is just possible to see the top of the steps leading from the patio to the beach/